The former Kansas star is taking over the project of rebuilding the Demon Deacons, and he thinks his new team is closer than recent results might indicate.

“We have aspirations of being a championship team,” Manning said during his formal on-campus introduction. “We want to cut down nets, and we have to put forth the work. ... I'm willing to roll up my sleeves, and let's go get it.”

The centerpiece of the Jayhawks’ “Danny and the Miracles” 1988 national title team was hired last week to replace Jeff Bzdelik, who resigned under intense public pressure three weeks ago following four mostly unremarkable seasons.

Graves has led Gonzaga to the NCAA tournament for the past six seasons, and the Bulldogs advanced to the Elite Eight in 2011. The team was a No. 6 seed this past season, the highest seeding in school history, before losing to James Madison in the opening game and finishing at 29-5.